Conservation Investment Strategy for the Birds of the Caribbean Slope of Mexico, Central America and Colombia
The forests of the Caribbean Slope have long been a haven for migratory and resident birds. However, these ecosystems now face threats such as deforestation, land invasions, mining, climate phenomena, and more. This Conservation Investment Strategy, developed by BirdLife International in collaboration with a wide range of experts and organizations from the involved countries, aims to address these challenges by prioritizing actions to protect habitats, reduce deforestation, restore degraded areas, and strengthen local communities with integrated solutions.
Migratory landbirds that breed in North America and migrate to Latin America are among the most threatened species on the planet. Since 1970, the U.S. and Canada have lost 3 billion birds. According to Partners in Flight, 126 migratory species require urgent action to prevent further decline. For resident birds, the situation may be even more critical. Habitat loss can be reversed through conservation strategies that benefit both wildlife and local communities.
The Conservation Investment Strategy for the Birds of the Caribbean Slope of Mexico, Central America and Colombia 2025 focuses on conserving migratory and resident birds in a region crucial for its biodiversity and Indigenous communities. Through 20 workshops with 80 participants from 41 organizations across eight countries, five major conservation targets were identified: (1) migratory and resident birds, (2) tropical rainforest, (3) Caribbean pine savannas, (4) tropical dry forest, and (5) mangroves. Six migratory species and 16 resident species were prioritized, including the Golden-winged Warbler (Vermivora chrysoptera), Great Green Macaw (Ara ambiguus), and Bare-necked Umbrellabird (Cephalopterus glabricollis).
Seven main threats were identified: agriculture and livestock (the greatest threat), fires, tourism, urbanization, mining and energy, human disturbances, pollution, and climate change. The expansion of commercial agriculture and forestry plantations are the primary causes of deforestation and habitat fragmentation.
To address these challenges, key conservation strategies were established:
- Environmental governance and law enforcement.
- Conservation agreements and incentives.
- Strengthening Indigenous peoples and local stakeholders.
- Technical and financial capacity building for authorities.
- Scientific research for decision-making.
These five strategies are essential for bird conservation, as they create a chain reaction of positive impacts. An action plan was developed, including estimated budgets and priority areas to measure the project’s success. Additionally, efforts will be integrated with existing initiatives to restore migratory corridors in protected areas and local communities.
This document serves as a strategic guide for those working or interested in protecting the Caribbean Slope, combining conservation efforts with participatory initiatives that support local communities and sustainable development. By aligning environmental actions with economic and social justice, and fostering collaboration with decision-makers, these strategies ensure effective conservation of this vital region.
Download and explore the full Conservation Investment Strategy to learn more about the actions needed to safeguard its biodiversity and communities.
